Varkala – Experience The Amalgamation Of Sun, Sea, Sand And Cliffs

By Author: soni sajjan
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Located on the sun-kissed Malabar Coast in southern Kerala, Varkala is a popular tourist destination about 50 kilometers north-west of Thiruvananthapuram. This quaint hamlet is characterized by its unique cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea, an aberration in the mostly flat coastline of Kerala. These cliffs are dotted with numerous water spouts and spas.

Varkala is also a significant religious place for Hindus, owing to the Janardana Swami Temple, a 2,000-year old Vaishnavaite shrine, renowned as the Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the South). Varkala Beach or Papanasam beach, with silvery sands, scintillating sunset views and mineral springs is considered to have holy waters, as per Hindu legends, which wash away sins, and is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre. Some of the other tourist attractions are Kappil Lake, Edava-Nadayara Lake, Anjengo Fort, Muthalapuzhi Lake, Varkala Tunnel, Varkala Lighthouse and Ponnumthurut Island.

There are several accommodation facilities available in this resort town to suit the requirements of the tourists. Some ...
... of the well-known Varkala hotels and Varkala resorts are as follows:

The Taj Gateway Hotel

The Taj Gateway Hotel is an enchanting retreat that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. There are a total of 30 rooms and suites that are designated as Standard Garden View Rooms, Superior Sea View Rooms and Deluxe Suite Sea View Rooms. All the rooms are equipped with, high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access, work desk, Satellite Television, International direct dialing, mini-bar and ironing board.

The options available for satisfying the palate are GAD, an all day dining restaurant, and Sunken Bar, a watering hole right inside the swimming pool. The guests can also avail the following facilities:

● Conference hall and business centre
● Currency exchange
● Tennis court
● Ayurveda massage centre and Jacuzzi
● Library lounge and backwater cruises

The Sanctum Spring Beach Resort

The Sanctum Spring Beach Resort is a well-known mid-range property located on the serene Papanasham beach, Helipad area of Varkala. The resort is 55 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram. The numerous restaurants and gift shops along the Varkala Beach are within a walking distance.

Accommodations are available in 17 rooms, broadly classified in to two categories, Executive A/c & Suite. The balconies on the higher floors have lovely views of the sea. There are two multi-cuisine restaurants that also serve traditional Kerala dishes. Other facilities available for the guests include

● Guided local tours
● Safe deposit lockers
● Free pickup & drop to and from Varkala Railway station, Bus stand
● Internet Cafe and Travel Desk
● Doctor on call
● En-suite Fridge/ Mini Bar
● Ayurvedic Therapy
● Laundry